By 
Transparency International Zambia (TI-Z) has expressed concern over government assertions that the Auditor General’s report on parastatals is inaccurate, warning that such claims could undermine the credibility of the Office of the Auditor General (OAG).
In a statement issued in Lusaka on Tuesday, TI-Z Executive Director, Maurice Nyambe, stated that the OAG played a critical role in ensuring transparency, accountability, and prudent management of public resources.
Nyambe stated that the Auditor General’s office operated in line with Article 250 of the Constitution of Zambia (Amendment) Act No. 2 of 2016 and follows well-established audit processes when assessing public institutions, including parastatals.
“The audit process includes direct engagement with Controlling Officers, who receive a Management Letter if financial irregularities are found,” Nyambe explained.
He noted that Controlling Officers were given the opportunity to respond, provide clarifications, and submit supporting evidence.
Any issues that remained in the final report, he said, were those where sufficient evidence was not provided or responses were unsatisfactory.
“It is therefore concerning that certain public officials, including Controlling Officers, have chosen to discredit the OAG instead of addressing the issues raised in the report,” Nyambe said.
He questioned why evidence disputing the findings was not provided during the review process and pointed out that those audited still had a chance to clarify matters before the Public Accounts Committee (PAC).
Nyambe urged government officials to focus on resolving financial irregularities rather than attacking the Auditor General’s office, warning that undermining the institution could create an environment where mismanagement and corruption flourish.
“The Auditor General’s role is crucial in ensuring public funds are effectively utilized for national development. Weakening this accountability mechanism only fosters financial mismanagement,” he said.
His remarks follow recent statements by Permanent Secretary for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs), Subeto Mutelo, who claimed the Auditor General’s report on parastatals was inaccurate.
WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.
Comments